Roof Restoration vs. Replacement: Which Do You Actually Need?

If your roof tiles or sheeting are structurally sound but the coating is faded, the ridge capping has cracked, and pointing has eroded — a full restoration (clean, re-bed, re-point, prime, paint) is typically 40–60% cheaper than replacement and adds 10–15 years of life.

A licensed roofer will inspect from inside the roof cavity to confirm there's no rot in the battens or rafters before quoting a restoration.

Multiple recurring leaks, sagging rafters, asbestos sheeting, or storm damage that's compromised more than 30% of the roof are all signals that replacement is the long-term-cheaper option.

Replacement in Colorbond is usually $90–$160 per square metre installed; concrete tile re-roof is $110–$180 per square metre. Removal of asbestos adds significant cost and requires licensed disposal.

Ask for the workmanship warranty length (8–10 years is standard for restoration; 25+ years for new Colorbond), and whether the manufacturer's product warranty is separately registered.

Confirm public-liability cover, height-safety qualifications for the crew, and whether scaffolding is included in the quote.